With its arch nemisis, the Porsche 911 Turbo, now packing a 530 horsepower punch, the Nissan GT-R’s 485 power output is starting to look like it’s just not enough. So to counter the German threat the R35 is expected to receive some major changes for the 2012 model year. The reworking should see some new aero bodywork, suspension and brake upgrades, and a retuned 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 that’s likely to output over 500 ponies.

Main visual differences should be a new front splitter and rear diffuser design. The six-speed dual clutch transmission should also receive an update to handle the extra performance.

German tuners TechArt have added another option to its range of upgrades for the Porsche Panamera. The TechArt Panamera Black Edition is the latest reworked model to hit the streets and it’s defined by its matte black adhesive vinyl wrap that makes this car look like a stealth version of the new sports car.

Aside from the exterior, the black theme is extended throughout the car’s aero kit, 22-inch alloy wheels and brake calipers. The calipers are detailed with the TechArt logo in red.

The black/red contrasting colour scheme is replicated on the interior, where black leather and alcantara is hand stitched in red, with matching red piping along the seats. Carbon fibre trim also sees liberal use in the cabin.

Pricing for the Techart Panamera Black Edition is yet to be announced.

It’s no secret that the Porsche Cayenne has made some serious money for the German automaker with some reports saying that it’s saved the company during the economic downturn. That trend looks set to continue with the new version of the Cayenne beginning production in Porsche’s Leipzig plant in Germany. Porsche top man Michael Macht has recently indicated that orders for the new Cayenne are “clearly exceeding” expectations.

The news comes at an important time for Porsche, which reportedly saw its sales decline an alarming 40 percent in the first quarter of this year. The previous-generation Cayenne, which is Porsche’s best-selling vehicle, had seen its sales figures reduced by about 25 percent during the fiscal year. But that may have been caused by potential Cayenne owners waiting for the new model.

Porsche is bringing out the new Cayman with updated styling, improved performance and reduced emissions — including the automaker’s first-ever production hybrid model. The new Cayenne and Panamera sedan are seen by many as the right formula to put Porsche back into making positive sales figures.

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The Porsche 918 Sypder was one of the biggest surprises of last month’s Geneva Motor Show and proved extremely popular with the visiting masses (read news item). After such a warm reception Porsche has signaled an intent to put the hybrid sportscar into production.

To back up the plan, Porsche has unveiled a new advertising campaign, calling the sportscar “The future of motorsport and series production.” To accompany this new marketing, Porsche has released a new video that offers a bit more information about its latest machine.